Nietes dominated Rodriquez in a tactical fight and won via unanimous decision. Two judges had it for Nietes in a wide margin: Robert Hecko 119-109 and Lisa Giampa 118-110, while judge Benoit Roussel had it little bit closer at 115-113.

Nietes, 33, now improves his record to 36 wins, with 21 wins by way of knockout, 1 defeat, and 4 draws. Rodriguez on the other hand falls to 17 wins, 3 defeats and a draw.

With the win Nietes, defended his championship for nearly eight years since winning the minimum weight championship in 2007 and the longest reigning Filipino champion in Philippine boxing history.